An UndocuCrit Analysis of New Jersey Higher Education Leaders’ Statements of Support for Undocumented Students

Using critical discourse analysis and Undocumented Critical Theory, I analyzed 16 statements from New Jersey higher education leaders who addressed federal anti-immigrant policies (2017–2019). Findings show leaders responded in four ways: (1) acompañamiento through explanatory support, political action, and affiliations; (2) reducing fear by providing relevant information; (3) recognizing immigrant students’ diverse experiences with legal liminality; and (4) sharing conflicting messages about immigration processes and undocumented parents. None included state-specific information relevant to undocumented or immigrant students. Recommendations are provided for university leaders addressing immigration issues, especially during politically uncertain times.